Decision making and planning system, method, and software utilizing a taxonomic table of irreducible strategies or plays

Abstract

A decision-making and planning system and method, which may be implemented as a website, enables a decision maker to formulate strategies and tactics divides potential courses of action into discrete units called “plays” and “surrogates,” and presents the plays and surrogates as symbols or icons organized into a taxonomic table, with definitions and information useful in selecting the plays associated with and accessible through the symbols or icons. The decision-maker selects plays from the table and places symbols or icons representing the plays on a template or whiteboard. The result is an analysis or map of strategies, including a sequence of plays and / or surrogates and corresponding information, that can be saved, edited, or published.

Description

[0001]This application claims the benefit of provisional U.S. Patent Application Ser. No. 60 / 839,410, filed Aug. 23, 2006.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]1. Field of the Invention[0003]This invention relates to a computer-implemented decision-making system and method that enables a decision maker to formulate strategies and tactics, by dividing completed or potential courses of action into irreducible units called “plays,” and / or by utilizing three kinds of third-parties, referred-to herein as “surrogates.” The plays and surrogates are presented as symbols or icons organized into a taxonomic table, with definitions and information useful in selecting the plays associated with and accessible through the symbols or icons.[0004]In addition to the taxonomic table, the invention provides a methodology that helps decision makers sequence and pattern their moves or plays, and a resource that lists “factors” that influence plays and helps the decision maker fine tune the course of action.[...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The invention is a system and method for breaking down complex strategies or courses of action into smaller parts, called plays, that can be easily understood and implemented by a decision maker. The plays are organized in a way that reflects the degree of confrontation and ease of execution, and the system includes a unique taxonomic table of symbols or icons that can be used to select the appropriate play or surrogate for a particular challenge or goal. The system also includes a five-step methodology for applying the plays, with steps including identifying the source of agreement or disagreement, selecting the play or plays, actually executing or running the play, pausing to assess the result of the play, and either continuing or discontinuing the play based on the assessment. The invention can be used in a variety of settings, such as businesses or the marketplace, and can help fine-tune diagnoses and battle plans. The system includes a website or other media that allows for real-life or wireless use of the invention. Overall, the invention provides a systematic approach to strategy development and implementation that can help decision makers overcome challenges and achieve goals more effectively."

Problems solved by technology

However, it has not heretofore been possible to categorize and present the plays in a way that is generally applicable and yet presentable on a web-site.

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